This Saturday there was a rugby gala for all local kids' teams. Sian and Gareth couldn't make it because of other committments such as parties and ice-skating but Rhiannon wasn't going to miss it for the world.

We travelled for over an hour early Saturday morning laden with drinks, rugby boots, towels, snacks, spare rugby ball, camera and two of her friends who were also playing.

The 'gala' meant that the mighty Lake Macquarie Kangeroos (under 9s) had to play two games - exhausting to watch let alone play.

The kids take it all in their stride, some taking it much more seriously than others. She may not be the biggest kid on the pitch, but she's committed and loves chasing after the ball.

Unfortunately, they were well beaten by the first team they played against. A combination of a stern pep-talk by the coach, bags of oranges and high-sugar snacks ensured a more enthusiastic effort in the second game. They were rewarded by a win in the very last minute. I'm not sure who was more excited though, the kids or the parents watching - it got quite heated at some moments, it's easy to get carried away with the excitment.